Bringing Your New Puppy Home – The First 48 Hours

The much anticipated time has come. Today, you're finally going to bring your new puppy home! You've spent many hours joyously waiting to bring your cuddly, furry little ball of fluff into your life. You've done your homework into what breed of dog would fit into you and your family's lifestyle. You know how big he will get, and the basic temperament of the breed. You took into consideration how much yard space you have, and whether he will be a housedog, an outside dog, or somewhere in between. But before you actually bring your puppy home, you will need to make preparations and establish some guidelines.

The good care that you take of your puppy in the first 48 hours he is with you is very important. Do not forget, he will be alone for the first time in his young life. His needs have been taken care of by his mother, and he sought his puppy mates for play and comfort. All of these things will be gone from his life when he comes home to live with you. But puppies are resilient. He will soon adapt to his new home, family and surroundings. Here's a guide line for the first 48 hours of your puppy's new life with you.

The first thing you need to do is puppy-proof your home and create a safe and friendly environment. Take all of your household poisonous cleaners out of the reach of your puppy. Do the same with any houseplants that are toxic to dogs. And lastly, look around in your house with a puppy's perspective and remove any hazardous items, or any family heirlooms that you do not want destroyed.

Next, make sure you have the appropriate supplies such as food and water bowls, a leach and collar and a brush and comb. Safe puppy toys such as stuffed animals can be found in your local pet store or Walmarts. Make sure that the toy is not too small. (If it can fit into his mouth comfortably then it is too small and the puppy could be endangered if he tries to swallow it. Choking can result.) A puppy crate with a bed is ideal to have in your home. This area will be his own little safe "cave", where he can go to feel secure. You might also consider purchasing a puppy or baby gate to restrict your new puppy to certain areas in your home.

The transition your puppy will experience when he comes home to you can be made easier and more pleasant if you follow theses helpful tips:

Choose a name for you puppy and use it all of the time when addressing him. He will soon learn his name this way. For the first 2 days, try to limit visitors. Always watch over your puppy when he's out of his crate or pen. This will keep him from harm and start to establish good social behavior. When your puppy is sleeping, do not wake him! He needs all the rest he can get to grow properly. Do not leave your puppy unattended with small children or other pets in the beginning! Finally, to make the most out of your puppy and your relationship, you will want to start him on a puppy training program. There are many books and helpful tools on the market today. Find one you like, and stick to it religiously. Please visit SitAndHeel.com for more information on how to train your dog.

Using these guidelines and helpful hints, you will have a successful start with your new puppy.